SPRING CLEANING

Spring Cleaning:

WHERE VIRUSES AND OTHER GERMS CAN LURK IN YOUR HOME

Provided by Methodist Richardson Medical Center

The pandemic takes spring cleaning to the next level, as we worry about how viruses and other germs can be tracked into our homes.

Contaminated surfaces aren’t the primary mode of transmission for coronavirus; it’s still person to person through respiratory droplets. However, getting serious about household cleaning can protect you from all kinds of germs, mold, and other disease-causing microbes.

To get rid of these germs, you need to know where to find them.

Most of us are on high alert when we touch grocery carts or gas pumps, but viruses can be just as prevalent at home.

When you touch these germ-ridden surfaces and then touch your face, you could get sick, said Shantala Samart, MD, infectious disease specialist with Methodist Health System. “Illnesses can vary from a mild respiratory infection to a, more rarely, serious gastrointestinal infection,” she said.

Germs can be found on countertops, in kitchen sinks, on faucet handles, and other frequently touched areas. Here are other spots where you’re likely to find the highest concentration:

Kitchen Items

Sponges, dish rags, sinks, cutting boards and coffee pots are among the biggest hubs for germs.

“These hot spots are reservoirs for E. coli, salmonella, molds and yeasts,” Dr. Samart said. “It is recommended to wipe down these surfaces daily and wash cutting boards after each use.”

Sponges are hard to clean. Microwaving or boiling them might cut down germs, but it’s recommended they be replaced frequently.

Toothbrush Holders

These can carry high levels of coliform and staphylococcus bacteria, thanks to their proximity to the toilet, Dr. Samart said. “It is recommended to wash them once a week.”

That can be done using soap and water or disinfectant wipes.

Pet Bowls

“High amounts of mold, yeast, and coliform bacteria can be found in pet bowls,” Dr. Samart said.

The CDC recommends washing these dishes regularly, preferably in the dishwasher because the kitchen sink could cause cross-contamination.

Cell Phones

Think of your smartphone as a petri dish carrying dangerous bacteria, including influenza, E. coli, and a number of coronaviruses.

“Cell phones are one of the most germ-ridden things we touch every day,” Dr. Samart said. “Studies show they can carry 10 times as many bacteria as a toilet seat.”

Make it a habit to wipe it down with a soft microfiber cloth and consider using one of the newer UV light cleaning products, if the phone manufacturer allows

Money

“Cash, in particular, can be covered with bacteria and viruses, including coronavirus,” Dr. Samart said.

She advises everyone to stick to contactless forms of payment, such as credit cards and mobile apps. But if you have to handle cash, be sure to use hand sanitizer or wash your hands and avoid touching your face afterward.

Personal Belongings

Items, such as keys and sunglasses, are also easily contaminated and should be regularly cleaned with disinfectants.

The CDC recommends wearing gloves and cleaning a surface with soap and water before using a disinfectant approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Use disinfectant solutions with at least 70% alcohol. In a pinch, you can use diluted bleach mixtures (1/3 cup of bleach per gallon of water or 4 teaspoons of bleach per quart of water).

“This pandemic has been a big reminder about the importance of regularly washing our hands and cleaning high-touch surfaces to protect ourselves and our family members,” Dr. Samart said. •

Texas law prohibits hospitals from practicing medicine. The physicians on the Methodist Health System medical staff are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Methodist Health System.